Bannering the theme “Technical Skills + Innovative Business Ideas: A Power-Fusion to Winning Entrepreneurial Ventures” Sorsogon State University College of Technology (CoT) 4th year Bachelor of Technology (BT) – Entrepreneurship class students for academic year 2023-2024, held a culminating activity titled ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUMMIT 2.0 business forum and paper presentation last December 13, 2023 at the SorSU Audio Visual Hall.
The Summit was participated by ten (10) entrepreneurship classes under Ms. Maria Cristina B. Ditan (Entrepreneurship Instructor and Summit Convener) and was attended by students from different programs of the CoT. The event showcased a (1) Business Plan Presentations (composed of best papers per class), (2) Products/Services Exhibit, and (3) Business Forum, Moreover, the event aims to present and recognize the best business plans written by senior technology students, understand the sources of financing as a start-up entrepreneur from DTI and other government support programs, and learn the winning business strategies from experts and successful entrepreneurs.
The opening program was attended by SorSU President Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus where she expressed support and appreciation for the event, she also shared her personal experience as an entrepreneur, the President shared insights about entrepreneurship and future livelihood ventures. She continued that in every business venture one must be patient “You are your own boss and only you can determine the phase of your business…you are studying here in this university in order to gain the vital knowledge and skills you will need whether in the future you work in offices or have your own business. What is important is that we (SorSU) are helping you attain success in your lives which will also result in the development of your communities.”
Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (SorSU Vice President for Academic Affairs) also shared a video message where he shared that the summit is a culmination of years of hardwork and dedication along with manifestation of commitment to education, creativity and enterprise. He also acknowledged the guests who are willing to share variable insights, experiences, and direct advice to the students. He continued, “We in the Pamantasang may Puso are not only concerned about our students whether they are still undergoing their studies within our classrooms, but we do our best through quality instruction and services to ensure you (students) complete your courses and become meaningfully employed and in this way we contribute to the socio-economic development of our province as well as the welfare and happiness of our fellow SorSUenos and with your partnership and support, we will be able to transform this vision into reality… may this summit ignite the flames of success that light our path as we venture into the world of entrepreneurship.”
Other University Officials in attendance were, Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, SorSU Sorsogon City Campus) and Dr. Orlando D. Doncillo (Dean, College of Technology).
After the opening messages a series of business stories, tips and techniques were shared by various business personalities and agencies to further the scope of the entrepreneurial world to the attendees, this include Mr. Roland Bongais, (BM, (AXA) Philippines, Legazpi Branch), Mr. Rustan Villanueva (Owner, Rboss Autocare, Kuya Boy’s Resto and Miekoy’s Ventures Inc.), Mr. Niel T. Ozo (Bureau of Treasury, Sorsogon Province), Mr. Rogel Blanqueza Fulleros (CEO, Fulleros Botos Builders and Design), Arch. Rodel F. Ayala (ROHZ Building Designs + Construction), Ms, Zyra Mae Garbida (CEO, Start Up Digital Limited).
Further, Mr. Ryan Joshua M. Quinones (Owner/CEO, Supah Kids Apparel) opened as the speaker for the afternoon session for the program. Afterwhich, the display of products and presentation of the business plan commenced, the contests for the exhibit and business plan followed.
The Business Plan contest was composed of panel evaluators from the SorSU College of Technology namely Dr. Marjorie F. Formanes, Prof. Nestor Gutiza and Prof. Maricel A. Dichoso (CoT, Research Coordinator). Meanwhile, judges for the product exhibit include Director Bennie Recebido (PIA Provincial), Dr. Sol Marcial Quinones (SCCi Administrative Officer) and Mr. Ryan Marcial Quinones (Supah Kids, Project X and Bicol All-Star).
The students showcased about 20 different products to the panel of judges and the Top 10 finalists made it to the final defense. An awarding program together with a closing ceremony concluded the summit.
Congratulations to the SorSU 4th year Bachelor of Technology (BT) – Entrepreneurship class students AY 2023-2024, Ms. Maria Cristina B. Ditan, SorSU College of Technology Faculty and staff for a successful activity. Warmest appreciation to the SorSU administration, invited entrepreneurs, guests, government and private agencies, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Sorsogon Provincial Office for the support, and other units which made the summit possible. (SorSU PIO)
Photo Credits: SorSU PIO & Ms. Maria Crsitina B. Ditan
